DEWA’s R&D Centre promotes collaboration with universities and research centres to sharpen skills of Emirati youth

Al Baheth programme, launched by the Research and Development (R&D) Centre of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), strengthens collaboration with companies, universities and research centres around the world. The programme aims to enhance the research and professional skills of national talent, providing them with opportunities to work at DEWA and the chance contribute to projects advancing energy and water research, and initiatives to address future challenges. It also engages local and international universities in research and development by involving their top technical candidates in projects alongside DEWA’s researchers across various fields.

DEWA’s R&D Centre supports its efforts to achieve the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050. It elevates the capabilities of the next generation of sustainability leaders by providing them with the latest global updates, technologies and practices, especially in clean and renewable energy, sustainability, digital transformation and the technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The centre is an incubator of innovation and a leading scientific platform, with prominent contributions that enrich the scientific and research community, both locally and globally. It attracts the finest researchers and academics from different nationalities and contributes to the exchange of the best local and global practices and experiences. This also enhances the public, private and academic partnerships to turn Dubai into a global hub for R&D and help it to become the top destination for scholars and researchers.

As part of Al Baheth programme, the R&D Centre organised an intensive workshop in collaboration with Khalifa University, focusing on the latest technologies and advanced research in renewable energy and reverse-osmosis (RO) water desalination technology. Professors, students, experts and DEWA researchers who participated in the workshop praised the centre's role in enhancing their expertise, communication skills and fostering growth while keeping pace with the latest technological advancements.

"On behalf of my research team, I would like to express my appreciation to DEWA’s R&D team for organising fruitful and significant workshops. We are pleased to maintain effective collaborations with DEWA’s team to develop strategies for minimising operating expenses, carbon emissions and chemical use in RO plants, contributing to the water sector in Dubai and the UAE," said Dr Emad Alhseinat, Associate Professor in Khalifa University's Department of Chemical Engineering.

Saif Khalid Mohamed Abdulrahman AlMulla, an engineer from DEWA’s Water & Civil Division, described the collaboration between the R&D Centre and Khalifa University as truly inspiring.

“We thank the organisers of the workshop for their outstanding efforts in showcasing innovative research and developments in water technologies, as well as the latest advancements in desalination and network management. We appreciate the opportunity provided by both sides to learn and interact with pioneering ideas and solutions to global water challenges, promoting sustainability in desalination processes and other critical areas,” said AlMulla.

Naser Saeed Naser Abualhaman Alzaabi, an undergraduate student at Khalifa University, said: "The experience and opportunity DEWA shared with us expanded our understanding of the complexities involved in securing water. I hope to contribute to ensuring a more sustainable future. The knowledge I gained during the workshop will enrich my graduation project, which focuses on water treatment."

Maitha Ahmed Rashed Abdulla Alshehhi and Mira Mohamed Jasim Mahmoud Almansoori, undergraduate students at Khalifa University, said the workshop was highly informative and provided valuable insights into desalination and the challenges facing the sector today.

“It was a great opportunity to learn from experts and engage in discussions about the future of desalination technologies," said Alshehhi and Almansoori.

Shaikha Mohammad Mubarak Saeed Khamis, another undergraduate student from Khalifa University, said: “This visit underscored the importance of collaborative efforts between research institutions and industry leaders like DEWA in driving advancements that address critical water challenges and contribute to global sustainability efforts.”

Maryam Ali Alsuwaidi, an R&D technologist from DEWA’s R&D Centre, said: “As a youth researcher in the Water Research Department, organising workshops and empowering university students on their educational journey inspires me to shape a sustainable future in the water sector. We appreciate the role of the R&D Centre in supporting young talent in achieving their educational goals through innovation and research.”